Business ProfileforCamera & Camcorder Repair Center

On February 22, 2022, I asked for an estimate for a repair to my **** Handycam DCR TRV-27 camcorder via the website for *********************************************** Repair Center (********************************************************* ) Their website clearly states that estimates are free. I received an email stating my tape deck assembly unit requires replacement, and the repair would cost $112.00. At the time, I was wasn't sure I wanted to proceed. On December 30, 2023, I again requested a repair estimate, and a repair order number of CR28044 was generated. I eventually decided to go forward with the repair and emailed the company on August 11, 2024, to inquire as to whether the repair order for CR28044 was still valid and whether I should use that number to proceed with the repair. They responded yes. I sent the camcorder to them. On August 17, 2024, they acknowledged they received the device and stated the cost to repair it was $269.26, more than double the original estimate. I declined the repair and asked for the device to be shipped back to me, stating that I would pay return shipping. However, they responded with an invoice with an additional "inspection fee" of $45.00. At the time, the Terms and Conditions posted on their website regarding estimates clearly stated: "If you choose to decline this estimate your product will be returned to you unrepaired and you are responsible cost of return shipping & handling ONLY." No mention of inspection fees. I reminded the company of their policy on Sept 7, 2024 and asked them to please revise the invoice to reflect the $21.85 for return shipping only. On Sept 10, 2024, I noticed they revised the ****************** on their website to suddenly include inspection fees. This business is engaged in BAIT AND SWITCH, by providing a "free" repair estimate and then doubling the estimate quoted after they had my device in their possession. They are now charging me a bogus fee to get my device back.